These rapid gyrations of the male and female are enacted many times at various intervals over several days. The lashing of the tails of the two fish spreads the fertilized eggs and the pair swims on. ![]() A small number of eggs and sperm (milt) are shed simultaneously during rapid shaking of the bodies. Swimming side by side over these areas for several hundred yards, the fish roll at various intervals so that the anus of the male and the female are close together. The pair swims in water as shallow as 15 to 20 inches over heavily vegetated areas, flooded areas, or shallow bays with muck bottoms covered by dead vegetation. (More about temperature later).Ī large female is usually accompanied by a smaller male (sometimes two males). The optimum or prime temperature is 55 degrees F. The muskellunge spawn shortly after the ice has melted, but later than the northern pike, usually in mid-April to late May, but more importantly, when the water temperature is 49 to 59 degrees F. The life and life cycles of Esox masquinongy begin in spring and, for our purposes, are divided into the following: 1) The spring spawning period 2) hatching and 3) growth. So, let’s review what we already know, what we don’t know, and what we may have forgotten about the life cycle of muskies then, let’s learn how to apply that knowledge to ensure successful days on the water. ![]() As hunters and anglers, we respect our favorite prey and the unique features that make them tick. Salmon, for example, have a very courageous and unique lifestyle as do many species. However, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. The courageous and rapid growth cycle from vulnerable egg to voracious predator truly enhances the muskie’s list of admirable traits.
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